Planning to Change Jobs? Do These Things First

Getting a new job is one of the most profound lifestyle changes of all. For full-time workers, a change of employers means a total transformation of about one-half of their waking hours. But what is the wisest way to ease into a career or job move? The best first step is to adjust personal finances. Many job changers must endure at least a few weeks of unemployment and lower income while making the switch.

Reducing monthly expenses by utilizing a student loan refinance for outstanding college loans is a great way to begin. Other powerful methods include getting expert help with your resume, spending time researching available openings, consulting with a professional career counselor, and honing interview skills to round out the move into a fresh position. Keep in mind that conserving money should be the first step, which is why your initial action should be to consider refinancing any student loans. Here's how to get started.

Reduce Monthly Expenses

Job changers do themselves a favor by rearranging finances before embarking on a full-blown effort to land a new position. Wardrobe upgrades, resume services, and a few weeks without a paycheck can be costly parts of the process. A fast way to cut expenses and have more money left over at the end of every month is to utilize a student loan refinance. Lingering college debt can become much less costly when you choose to refinance.

There are instant savings in the form of lower payments, but most borrowers find that they also get better rates and other terms as a part of the deal. The process is a simple one and can be done completely online in a matter of minutes. There's no reason to make payments on one or more college loans when you can refresh the agreement and make just one lower payment each month.

Revise Your Resume

On your quest to improve your career expect to spend a modest amount, about $200, on a professional, certified writer who can redo your resume. It's essential that the document be brought up to date, but other factors need attention as well. Most hiring agents scan resumes for keywords and use a software program called ATS (applicant tracking system). A certified professional can rewrite the document so that it meets the requirements of the companies you want to work for. Remember to keep digital and hard-copy versions of the resume and aim to consolidate all the content onto a single page.

Research the Market

Here is where to use an extensive personal and professional network. Do a deep dive into the niches that interest you. Make phone calls, send emails, and create lists of potential target companies. Don't limit yourself to positions that are publicly advertised. Ask friends at other companies about openings. Join online forums that discuss the job market niches you're researching.

Consider using a search service for additional resources and to get a few extra leads. However, always let agencies know that you are continuing to hunt on your own. Sometimes you need to spend money to get the inside track on a particular career path. Explore the idea of working with a professional counselor who can guide you in general and specific directions based on your experience and goals.